What Are the Benefits of Pulmonary Lung Function Tests?
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Lung function tests (known as pulmonary function tests or PFTs) are a series of tests that assess the health of your respiratory system. They provide important information about how well your lungs work and detect signs of lung disease.
At Dr. Avi Ishaaya Centers in Los Angeles, CA, we are dedicated to helping patients maintain optimal lung health. Today, Dr. Avi Ishaaya will explore the benefits of lung function tests and how to prepare for your appointment. Our team is committed to offering excellent care in a safe and comfortable environment.
What is a pulmonary function test?
Pulmonary function tests measure how your lungs work. They provide doctors and healthcare professionals with information on how much air you can take in and breathe out, as well as the strength of your breath and how quickly gases exchange between your lungs and bloodstream.
PFTs at our office are noninvasive and can be performed on the same day as your consultation. All tests are performed under the supervision of a certified technician and should not cause any discomfort or pain.
Benefit #1: Get a baseline record of your lung health
One key advantage of pulmonary function tests is establishing a baseline for lung health. This is useful for patients undergoing routine medical checkups and already diagnosed with lung conditions. By having a clear record of your lung functionality at a certain point in time, it becomes easier to compare and assess any changes brought about by disorders or treatments.
Benefit #2: Assess how treatments work over time
Lung function tests provide invaluable information if you have been diagnosed with a respiratory disorder such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (also called COPD), or cystic fibrosis. These tests can track your progress and determine how effective treatments are over time. Our Los Angeles, CA office is equipped with top technologies to monitor your lungs.
Benefit #3: Measure the impact of chronic illnesses
If you have a chronic respiratory illness, keeping track of how your condition impacts your daily life is essential. Lung function tests can let us know about the progression or severity of an existing condition. Dr. Ishaaya uses results to develop individualized treatment plans tailored to your needs.
Benefit #4: Diagnose lung diseases and disorders
Lung function tests play an essential role in diagnosing lung diseases and disorders. They can also pinpoint issues related to narrowed or obstructed airways that contribute to shortness of breath. Diagnosis and timely intervention improve your chances of managing the condition effectively and maintaining a better quality of life.
How to prepare for a PFT
There are a few simple ways to ensure a successful PFT. Avoid smoking or engaging in physical activity right before the test, which can impact your results. Wear comfortable clothing and limit your caffeine intake several hours prior to the appointment. Our office can provide additional guidance to help ensure you are properly prepared.
Book your pulmonary function test
Lung function tests offer a number of benefits and are an important part of your health journey. To book a PFT at Dr. Avi Ishaaya Centers in Los Angeles, CA, get in touch with our office today. Dr. Avi Ishaaya is proud to offer cutting-edge diagnostic services so our patients maintain optimal lung health. Together, we can work toward a better future of respiratory care.